When discussing the symptoms of ADHD in adults, many people still picture a child fidgeting in class. Yet, ADHD doesn’t stop in childhood. Many people continue to experience challenging symptoms into adulthood, often in more subtle ways.
At Hively, we aim to help adults and their loved ones recognise the symptoms of ADHD, understand how they differ from childhood presentations, and know when it’s time to seek a professional ADHD assessment.
What ADHD Looks Like in Adulthood
ADHD is a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development.
For adults, the presentation may shift: physical hyperactivity often becomes mental restlessness, and challenges with planning, organisation, and time-management become more prominent.
While ADHD traits may affect areas of your life in a challenging way, many adults with ADHD also show creativity, determination, and the ability to think dynamically, qualities that can be harnessed with the right understanding and support.
How the Symptoms of ADHD in Adults Differ from Childhood ADHD
While many core features overlap, there are notable differences in how ADHD presents in adulthood:
- Hyperactivity becomes inner restlessness or an inability to relax, rather than overt fidgeting
- Inattention shifts from classroom distraction to difficulties with deadlines, multitasking, and organisation
- Adults often mask or compensate with coping mechanisms, so ADHD can be mistaken for stress or anxiety
- Because adults juggle greater responsibilities, career, finances, relationships, the impact of ADHD and how you function can be more significant.
Key Symptoms of ADHD in Adults
If you recognise several of the following symptoms of ADHD in adults, and they interfere across multiple areas of life, consider seeking an assessment.
Inattention
- Frequent careless mistakes or overlooking details
- Difficulty sustaining attention on long tasks or meetings
- Not listening when spoken to directly
- Poor follow-through — starting but not finishing tasks
- Disorganisation — messy workspace, chaotic schedule
- Avoiding tasks that require sustained effort (e.g., paperwork)
- Losing items such as keys, phones, or notes
- Easily distracted or forgetful in daily activities
Hyperactivity / Impulsivity
- Feeling restless or unable to relax
- Talking excessively or interrupting others
- Acting impulsively — e.g., sudden spending or decisions
- Struggling to stay seated or waiting your turn
Executive-Function and Emotional Symptoms
In adults, impairments in executive functioning and emotional regulation are particularly noticeable:
- Chronic procrastination and poor time estimation
- Difficulty planning or prioritising, often in “crisis mode”
- Low frustration tolerance and mood instability
- Persistent low self-esteem or underperformance despite effort
- Relationship difficulties due to distraction or impulsivity
For further reading on symptons, head to the Australian Psychological Society Website.
When to Seek an ADHD Assessment
Recognising symptoms is only the first step. A a formal assessment provides clarity and tailored support. Consider booking an ADHD assessment in Brisbane if:
- You have multiple ADHD symptoms across work, home, or study settings
- Some symptoms were present before age 12
- Symptoms significantly affect your relationships, work performance, or daily life
- You’ve tried typical organisational strategies without success
- Other mental health or sleep issues don’t fully explain your struggles
At Hively, our adult ADHD assessments consider your life history, daily function, and how symptoms manifest across contexts.
Why Recognition Matters
Untreated ADHD can lead to ongoing struggles such as underperformance at work, unstable finances, relationship breakdowns, and low self-esteem. Recognising the symptoms of ADHD in adults allows you to access effective treatments — behavioural strategies, coaching, workplace support, and, if needed, medication.
For many adults, finally understanding their ADHD can bring relief and self-compassion after years of feeling misunderstood.
Final Thoughts
If you often feel disorganised, restless, forgetful, or overwhelmed despite your best efforts, these could be key symptoms of ADHD in adults. The good news: ADHD is highly manageable with the right understanding and support.
If this sounds familiar, reach out to book an ADHD assessment — the first step toward clarity and confidence in managing your symptoms.
For national ADHD resources, see ADHD Australia.
